Recommended Weight Distribution System for 1988 S&H Livestock Trailer

Question:

Hi, we have a 2020 Tundra SR5 with the towing package that had quite a sag when we loaded 50 bales of hay into it today. I have read that a WDS would be the answer but wanted to make sure before I bought one. Our trailer is a 1988 SandH stock trailer. It is 20foot long, including the tongue and has electronic brakes. The estimated empty weight of the trailer is 3000 lbs and the heaviest load we plan to haul is ~2500 lbs of horses 2 horses. An online calculator gave me a TW of 900 lbs when loaded. Would this be the ideal weight distribution hitch or would another one be better? I can see that attaching one to the tongue of this trailer might be difficult since it has a steel triangle in the fork of the tongue. We do want sway control and the ability to back up, too. I appreciate any help. Thanks! Chris

asked by: Chris G

Helpful Expert Reply:

You are correct, a weight distribution system will be the best solution to keep your ride level while your trailer is fully loaded. Based on the information you have provided, the Curt # C17500 matches up with your tongue weight and has the other features you are looking for. The only issue with this system is that you will not be able to attach these brackets to your trailer.

The ideal WDH for your trailer would be the Reese Strait-Line Weight Distribution System w/ Sway Control # RP66084. This system uses dual-cam sway control giving you the best sway control out there. It also covers a wide range of tongue weights which will be helpful since it sounds like you put more than just horses on your trailer. The tongue weight range for this system is 600-1,200 lbs. Ideally you want your tongue weight to fall somewhere in the middle. I recommend measuring your tongue weight using a scale like the # e99044 just to be sure. Typically, it is 10-15% of your total trailer weight, which would put you at 825 lbs assuming 15% with your horses in the trailer.

In order to solve the problem of attaching this weight distribution hitch to your trailer, you will also need the Chain Hangers for Reese Weight Distribution Systems # RP58305. These have a bolt on installation and will require drilling in the side of the frame. You will use these in place of the brackets that come with the # RP66084.

You will also need a hitch ball since one is not included. I recommend the # A-90 for a 2" ball and the # 19286 for a 2-5/16" ball.

I have attached some review and installation videos, along with a helpful article on how to determine trailer tongue weight for your reference.